Antenatal depression (also known as prenatal depression in its early form during pregnancy) and post natal depression can be devasting for those involved, and some may not even realise they have it.
Post Natal Depression
For many suffering post natal depression, some may not even realise they have it. Or, you may be very aware and be experiencing some of the symptoms below. Or possibly as a partner, you may have a feeling that your partner may be suffering. The truth is, Post Natal Depression can often creep up on you, and ranges from mild or very severe. There is a distinct difference between being a busy new mum coping with the business of motherhood, to post natal depression which ruins what should otherwise be a beautiful experience . But, how do we know where that line is? The answer to this is best clarified as a list of symptoms or feelings that you may be experiencing
- Sad, unhappy feelings, that does not tie in with what you thought you would be experiencing.
- loss of interest in the world, your surroundings, and even your baby
- Fatigue and lack of energy
- disturbed or irregular sleep pattern
- lack of concentration and a wandering mind
- low self-confidence
- loss of appetite
- Irritability or lack of enthusiasm
- Guilt
- suicidal thoughts or self harm
Of course, many of these can often be due to the new stresses of motherhood.. but if your days are filled with sadness more than joy, then now may be the time to see help.
Antenatal Depression
Antenatal depression occurs during pregnancy, and is not often discussed or known about. It is classified based on a woman’s symptoms. During pregnancy, a lot of changes to mood, memory, eating habits, and sleep is common. When these common traits become severe, and begin to alter one’s day-to-day life, that is when it is considered to be antenatal depression. Symptoms of Antenatal depression are:
- Inability to concentrate.
- Difficulty remembering.
- Feeling emotionally numb.
- Extreme irritability.
- Sleep problems
- Extreme or unending
- Desire to over eat, or not eat at all.
- Loss of interest in sex.
- A sense of dread about everything, including the pregnancy.
- Feelings of failure, or guilt.
- Persistent sadness.
- Thoughts of suicide, or death.
Please, if you are concerned about your wellbeing or that of your partners, give me a call.
